The Daily asked Mr Abbott several questions, including whether he had sought a briefing with Mr Brough and other senior Liberals relating to Mr Brough's actions in the Ashby matter and his April 2012 meeting with Palmer at his Coolum resort.

Mr Abbott was also asked if he stood by his December 2012 comment that he was confident that Mr Brough had "acted rightly at all times". We received no response from Mr Abbott.

While Mr Palmer claimed Brough approached him with a plan to "destroy" Slipper, he denied Mr Slipper's claim that LNP heavyweight Joe Hockey was involved in the affair.

The colourful mining magnet said he met with Mr Brough at the Palmer Coolum Resort, where Mr Brough detailed the case against Mr Slipper.

Mr Brough confirmed the meeting took place and said shadow treasurer Mr Hockey was also present.

At the time of the gathering, Mr Palmer was an LNP member, but he had a public falling out with the party and established the Palmer United Party.

"Mal Brough said to me that we needed to destroy Peter Slipper," Mr Palmer said.